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Statement by the Honourable Carolyn Bennett on the First Nations Financial Transparency Act

Statement
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Statement by the Honourable Carolyn Bennett on the First Nations Financial Transparency Act

OTTAWA, ONTARIO (December 18, 2015) - The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, issued the following statement today in regards to the First Nations Financial Transparency Act:

"Today, I directed my Department to cease all discretionary compliance measures related to the First Nations Financial Transparency Act and to reinstate funding withheld from First Nations under these measures.

Furthermore, in keeping with our commitment to a renewed, nation-to-nation relationship, the Government of Canada will suspend any court actions against First Nations who have not complied with the Act.

Transparency and accountability are paramount to any government, whether it is municipal, provincial, federal or First Nation. We will work in full partnership with First Nations leadership and organizations on the way forward to improve accountability and transparency. This cannot be achieved without the engagement of First Nations and its members.

I have been asked to undertake, along with my colleague the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, and in full partnership and consultation with First Nations, Inuit, and the Métis Nation, a review of the laws to ensure that the Crown is fully executing its obligations in accordance with its constitutional and international obligations.

These initial steps will enable us to engage in discussions on transparency and accountability that are based on recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership and that build towards a renewed, nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous Peoples."